Page 10 THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, October 10, 2025 Rich history of Bell Rock Cemetery evoked on a walking tour Special to The Advocate R esidents learned about the Historic Bell Rock Cemetery last weekend on a tour led by local historian and Malden Historical Society Board member Mark Linehan. Participants were givMark Linehan leads a Bell Rock Cemetery tour. (Courtesy photo) en the opportunity to explore one of Malden’s oldest burial grounds while learning about our fascinating past. Located at 60 Medford St. and one of Malden’s most significant historical landmarks, Bell Rock Cemetery dates back to Malden’s establishment in 1649 and is the final resting place of many of Malden’s early settlers and prominent figures. As one of the oldest burying grounds in the country, Bell Rock Cemetery serves as a window into the rich history of the city and its role in early Massachusetts, and as one of the highest concentrations of 17th-century headstones of any burying ground in the country. Residents visited the graves of Revolutionary War soldiers — highlighting Malden’s contribution to American independence — and learned about notable residents and early community leaders who once called Malden home. Mark provided insights into 17th- and 18th-century burial practices and customs along with architectural and artistic features of the historic gravestones and monuments. Sadly, many of the gravestones have been damaged and have disappeared over the years. There are two more chances this month to take a walking tour with Mark in Bell Rock Cemetery: Saturday, October 18, from 10-11:30 a.m., and Sunday, October 19, from 1-2:30 p.m. The tours are free thanks to the Malden Historical Society and a Malden Community Connections Grant from the City of Malden. No advance registration is required, but the tour is not recommended for persons younger than 10. For more information, please email linehan. mark@gmail.com. Malden’s 1st Italian Heritage Month Festival From left to right: Special Assistant to the Mayor Maria Luise, Ward 5 Councillor Ari Taylor, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Coordinator Kashawna Harling, Mayor Gary Christenson, Communications Director Elaina Savino, Public Health Director Laura Vlasuk and Pete Caso. (Courtesy photo) Special to The Advocate T o kick off Italian-American Heritage Month (October), the City of Malden held its first ever Italian Heritage Celebration on City Hall Plaza on a beautiful fall evening last week. The event was organized by the Mayor’s Office in conjunction with the Health and Human Services Department and sponsored by Ward 5 Councillor Ari Taylor. Attendees enjoyed traditional Italian music and sampled favorite Italian foods for free. Hundreds of residents enjoyed Piantedosi Bakery’s bread tasting table with olive oil dips. Sausages with peppers and onions were provided courtesy of Bianco & Sons, and The Traveling Acoffeecary provided coffee. The longest line might have been for the delicious cannoli that were supplied by Uncle Joey’s Cannoli. There were also cultural displays and a very popular children’s coloring table. Event organizers hope to make this event an annual celebration! Subscribe to the Advocate Online! www.advocatenews.net
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